Although Rembrandt began to work as a portraitist in Amsterdam in late 1631, he initially retained his studio in Leiden, where this painting was most likely produced. This sitter was a militiaman, or gentleman soldier, from The Hague, who is shown here with a sword at his hip and a small musket in his hand. Surviving contemporary documents record de Caullery’s long and distinguished naval career, including service during the Dutch maritime wars with England and the Baltic states.